Applying through Clearing can be stressful for you and your loved one. But, we’re here to support you through every step.
To help support your teen through Clearing at the СÀ¶ÊÓƵ, we’ve put together a guide that includes our top Clearing tips for parents and caregivers.
Clearing - the basics
Let’s start with what Clearing is. Clearing is an opportunity for potential undergraduate students to get a place at a university. It’s part of the UCAS application process where students can find available courses to apply to after the initial UCAS deadline and once they have their results. If the student isn’t signed up to the UCAS system yet, they can apply to us directly.
Most students decide to go through Clearing on Results Day, but a young person is able to apply anytime during the Clearing period if they know their grades. Clearing opens on 5 July 2025.
Want to find out more? Our Clearing Hub is full of information.
Should the student apply through Clearing?
If your teen wants to explore their options and find the right university to attend, then Clearing is for them.
The student will be able to go through Clearing if:
- they have changed their mind about what or where to study
- they haven’t received any other offers
- their grades were unexpected
- they declined the offers they received
- they want to apply after the 30th of June
If your loved one is thinking about going through Clearing, our checklist will help them prepare. Why don’t you work through the checklist together?
How to apply through Clearing
Course vacancies will be announced on our website. To get a place on one of our Clearing courses, the student will need to give us a call. Our admissions team will ask them some questions and help them find a course that is suitable.
When they call us, they will need to have their qualifications, UCAS ID Number (if relevant) and Clearing number (available in their UCAS application) to hand.
Waiting for your results? Sign up for Priority Clearing
Priority Clearing phone number, 1-2-1 application support and more!
Our top Clearing tips for parents:
Preparing in advance is the best way to help your loved one go through the Clearing process smoothly. Here’s our Clearing advice for parents:
- Make a list - Discuss which alternative courses the student is interested in. Note down what the entry requirements and the Clearing hotline number are for the University.
- Pick up the phone - If your teen didn’t receive the grades they wanted, don’t worry, they still have lots of options. Ring our Clearing hotline to talk through the alternatives. We want to hear from you and provide helpful advice.
- Offer an extra pair of hands - Any help you give the student will make a big difference. Whether it’s doing some research about accommodation, holding their place in the Clearing queue, or providing moral support, your loved one will appreciate it.
- Visit the university - The best way to get a feel for a place is by visiting it. Why not come along to our Open Day? It's a great opportunity for both of you to see our facilities and speak to our staff and current students.
On Results Day
Results Day is a big day, and the student may be looking for some reassurance. If you can, free up your day to be with them to celebrate their successes together or to listen to any concerns they may have.
If your teen doesn't get the results they hoped for, remind them that they don’t need to rush to make a decision. They have time. Encourage them to take a step back and assess their options.
We hope the Clearing advice for parents and supporters in this guide will help you figure out the next steps. You can also find out more about the Clearing process by signing up for our live Clearing webinar.